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Anaerobic digestion is a well-established biological process for converting biomass in waste streams into a renewable energy source, and it also contributes to the treatment of these waste streams. In this introductory mini-review, some fundamental aspects of anaerobic digestion for use in the pulp and paper industry and other sectors are briefly summarized. The contents include the basics of anaerobic digestion, feedstocks, key process parameters, and typical anaerobic digesters/reactors and their representative manufactures. Fostering the more efficient and widespread commercial use of anaerobic digestion technologies would be a critical strategy to address the issues of energy, the environment, and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power system protection and asset management present persistent technical challenges, particularly in the context of the smart grid and renewable energy sectors. This paper aims to address these challenges by providing a comprehensive assessment of machine learning applications for effective asset management in power systems. The study focuses on the increasing demand for energy production while maintaining environmental sustainability and efficiency. By harnessing the power of modern technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and deep learning (DL), this research explores how ML techniques can be leveraged as powerful tools for the power industry. By showcasing practical applications and success stories, this paper demonstrates the growing acceptance of machine learning as a significant technology for current and future business needs in the power sector. Additionally, the study examines the barriers and difficulties of large‐scale ML deployment in practical settings while exploring potential opportunities for these tactics. Through this overview, insights into the transformative potential of ML in shaping the future of power system asset management are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the association between renewable energy uptake and digitalization in the sector by reviewing relevant literature (published 2010–2022), with the aim of identifying the existing utilization of digital technologies within the sector, challenges to adoption, and future prospects. Different search engines (SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) were used to locate relevant papers and documents. The results revealed the high significance of digital technologies in supporting the renewable energy sector, with high costs and security risks representing the key challenges. Most papers reviewed had a positive outlook, but recommended further research and development for effective energy transition and resilient infrastructure. The current drivers of the integration of digital technologies to support the diffusion of renewable energy sources appear to extend beyond energy demand and involve many aspects of sustainability and sustainable development. Compared with previous reviews, this work has unique scope and novelty since it considers the bigger picture of the coupling between digitalization and the renewable energy sector, with a greater focus on critical areas in these two interconnected bodies that need to be addressed. The relatively small sample of relevant papers (69 from 836 hits) located in the literature review confirms the need for more research covering the subject in greater depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen-powered mobility is believed to be crucial in the future, as hydrogen constitutes a promising solution to make up for the non-programmable character of the renewable energy sources. In this context, the hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engine represents one of the suitable technical solutions for the future of sustainable mobility. As a matter of fact, hydrogen engines suffer from limitations in volumetric efficiency due to the very low density of the fuel. Consequently, hydrogen-fueled ICEs can reach sufficient torque and power density only if suitable supercharging solutions are developed. Moreover, gaseous-engine performance can be improved to a great extent if direct injection is applied. In this perspective, a remarkable know-how has been developed in the last two decades on NG engines, which can be successfully exploited in this context. The objective of this paper is twofold. In the first part, a feasibility study has been carried out with reference to a typical 2000cc SI engine by means of 1D simulations. This study was aimed at characterizing the performance on the full load curve with respect to a baseline PFI engine fueled by NG. In this phase, the turbocharging/supercharging device has not been included in the model in order to quantify the attainable benefits in the absence of any limitation coming from the turbocharger. In the second part of this paper, the conversion of a prototype 1400cc direct injection NG engine, running with stoichiometric mixture, to run on a lean hydrogen combustion mode has been investigated via 1D simulations. The matching between engine and turbocharger has been included in the model, and the effects of two different turbomatching choices have been presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the renewable energy supply chain has gained momentum as a vital component for clean energy, contributing to a sustainable future for the world. The development of the renewable energy supply chain is directly linked to circular economy targets and practices. This paper presents a systematic literature review of studies that analyze the roles, functions, and application objectives of the circular economy in the renewable energy supply chain. The aim of this review is to investigate key elements of renewable energy supply chains in the circular economy, shedding light on the state of research on the progress of sustainability in renewable energy supply chains, and guiding future research. Mainly, the systematic literature review demonstrates its findings by identifying and mapping the collated literature to reviews and applied studies that support and drive the renewable energy supply chain under the circular economy. This review paper is handled with a systematically descriptive, bibliometric, and content analysis hybrid approach, framed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis methodology on the research topic. Findings show that circular economy applications have gained momentum in the renewable energy supply chain; nonetheless, some deficiencies persist. Redesign-based applications and design for recycling concepts encompass a significant gap in the renewable energy supply chain. Moreover, the current literature lacks outcomes on the applicability of circular economy 10R targets and the interrelationship and scalability of sustainable development goals in the renewable energy supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy sources (RESs) offer key transformative potential from a societal point of view due to their modularity and ability to generate energy at the local level, allowing for the development of grassroots democratic and participatory initiatives. The paper aims to share insights into the processes of creating RES cooperatives in Poland. One of the first cooperatives to be established in the Upper Silesian region in Poland was the energy cooperative (EC) "Our Energy". This study presents an in-depth empirical analysis of a community-based renewable energy cooperative. The study employed a case study methodology, including a SWOT analysis framework, to describe the research subject and identify its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Key findings indicate that members benefit from stable energy prices and full recovery of the energy produced, and the cooperative is at the forefront of energy-sharing practices that minimize costs through direct transactions with the local municipality. The strategic goals of the EC focus on expanding membership, increasing the number of photovoltaic installations, implementing energy balancing, combating energy poverty, and reducing emissions. Challenges such as financial constraints and a lack of real-time monitoring of energy distribution are acknowledged, and carbon footprint reduction innovations and stakeholder engagement are highlighted as forward-looking approaches. The study highlights the role of cooperatives as a model for community-led sustainable energy initiatives. However, the study acknowledges the limitations of its small sample size, suggesting the need for broader research to understand the impact of collaborative energy on decarbonization. Future research directions are proposed, focusing on the long-term sustainability and socioeconomic impacts of energy cooperatives. This study contributes to the scholarly discourse on renewable energy cooperatives by offering insight into their potential to bridge the gap between energy producers and consumers and support sustainable community development. The main novelty of this paper lies in its detailed examination of a specific renewable energy cooperative, incorporating SWOT analysis, stakeholder perspectives, quantitative assessments, and a forward-thinking approach. This multifaceted analysis contributes to the existing literature on renewable energy initiatives, providing a valuable reference for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper looks at the changing impact of renewable energy and green innovation on the carbon footprint of eight MENA nations between 2000 and 2020. We investigate this by using the panel Q-ARDL model for the first time, and we find that, with various impacts across different quantiles, a rise in green innovation and renewable energy greatly boosts environmental sustainability in the short run. In the long run, this effect becomes increasingly more noticeable. According to our analysis, the chosen MENA countries quickly embraced energy storage, solar hydrogen, and other technology pathways to diversify their energy mix, which was a turning point in the fight against climate change. Although these factors have been separately examined in different studies, our research merges them into a single non-parametric model. This research is significant as it provides empirical evidence on the efficiency of green innovation and renewable energy policies, and it will guide policymakers and energy stakeholders in developing strategies to achieve sustainable development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals is to "Ensure access to affordable, sustainable, and clean energy for all." Additionally, the growing concerns about climate change and energy security have heightened the importance of exploring alternative energy sources to replace fossil fuels. The utilisation of agricultural waste for bioenergy production has acquired significant attention due to its potential to mitigate environmental impacts and provide renewable energy sources. However, the major obstacle to producing bioenergy is managing the supply chain while considering economic, environmental, and social factors in an optimal way. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the literature on the management of agriculture waste supply chains, specifically related to the use of modelling and optimisation techniques for planning. The first section describes different stages of the supply chain and various technologies for converting biomass to bioenergy. This is followed by a synopsis of the literature reviewed based on decision levels, objective functions, modelling methodologies, and optimisation approaches. Finally, the review highlights limitations and gaps in current research and the areas with potential for further exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

World is presently facing major challenges in energy industry to reduce or replace greenhouse gases (CO 2 , CH 4 , NO x etc.) emissions to net zero in the coming decades while decreasing the reliance on traditional fossil fuels. In the current scenario, hydrogen (H 2) appears to be an excellent alternative energy source to meet the criteria. Storage of H 2 over a long period of time in large quantities poses a significant challenge for its widespread uses. In order to overcome this issue, the idea of using large-scale depleted underground hydrocarbon reservoirs, salt caverns, underground aquifers, etc. is considered to be a suitable option for underground hydrogen storage. However, underground storage of H 2 for a longer time period comes up with a potentially high microbial activity where H 2 can be utilized in the microbial metabolism and converted into undesirable gases like CH 4 and H 2 S which in turn, damage the porous medium due to clogging, acid formation, and corrosion activity. This review paper explores the various scientific challenges during large-scale H 2 storage in porous medium to facilitate the global H 2 economy. Moreover, a detailed description of the effect of subsurface environment conditions such as pressure, temperature, pH, and salinity on microbes is included in this study. In addition to this, steps to counter microbial activity in stored H 2 monitoring and mitigation approaches are also discussed in this article. • Underground hydrogen storage and its mechanism are discussed. • Effect of microorganisms on stored hydrogen and porous media properties comprehensively reviewed. • The impact of microbial activity on subsurface storage environment conditions. • Monitoring and mitigation strategies to counter microbial activities comprehensively reviewed. • Latest treatment proposition of microbial activities and role of biocides in underground hydrogen storage discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the urgent global need to limit warming to 2 °C as well as a localized need in our case study to address rising energy demand amid electrical and thermal network limitations, a critical examination of demand-side energy reductions and the concept of energy sufficiency is needed. This paper contributes to the sparse literature on bottom-up analysis by utilizing Iceland—a leader in renewable energy generation—as a case study to explore the socio-economic factors influencing energy footprints. Our findings reveal significant energy footprints across various consumption domains, particularly housing and mobility, influenced by income levels, urbanization, and lifestyle choices. The study highlights the paradox of a high renewable energy supply leading to potential misconceptions regarding abundant and low-cost energy, resulting in substantial energy consumption-related environmental impacts. Using detailed household consumption survey data, this research provides insights crucial for developing sustainable energy policies that not only target technological advancements but also address the need for a reduction in energy demand and a shift towards energy sufficiency. This work marks a contribution to the literature through the provision of a case study of low income inequality and high energy footprints in a highly renewable energy system context. Further, this work is useful for Icelandic and international policymakers to understand in such high-demand contexts which consumption domains would be most relevant for sufficiency policies. This comprehensive analysis opens pathways for future research to further explore the intersections of energy consumption, socio-economic factors, and well-being, offering a nuanced understanding necessary for crafting sufficiency and demand-side policies aimed at a sustainable energy future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transportation is an economic sector that contributes significantly to global warming due to its high consumption of fossil fuels, and sustainably produced hydrogen is a major contender for an alternative clean energy source. Public transit is vital for environmental sustainability via reducing individual vehicle usage and traffic congestion, and the prospect of powering buses using hydrogen fuel has been extensively studied lately. This paper seeks to comprehensively review the current status of research on hydrogen-powered buses considering triple bottom line sustainability perspectives. A brief technical overview of prospective environmentally benign hydrogen production processes has been presented. Technological, economic, and environmental findings and research trends seen in recent analyses on hydrogen-powered buses have been summarized, along with the status quo of global hydrogen refuelling stations. Identified focal points for future studies include performance enhancements, refuelling infrastructure propagation, and policy formulation. The conclusions derived from this review will benefit the accelerated deployment of hydrogen-fuelled public transit fleets. • Environmentally benign hydrogen production is reviewed techno-economically. • The prospects of using hydrogen for public bus transport are discussed thoroughly. • Blue and green hydrogen production are likely to coexist in the hydrogen economy. • Costs and energy consumption of hydrogen-powered buses need improvement. • Refuelling facility deployment and public awareness of safety should be enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the global transition toward sustainable energy gains momentum, integrating electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage, and renewable energy sources has become a pivotal strategy. This paper analyses the interplay between EVs, energy storage, and renewable energy integration with Indonesia's grid as a test case. A comprehensive energy system modeling approach using PLEXOS is presented, using historical data on electricity generation, hourly demand, and renewable energy, and multiple scenarios of charging patterns and EV adoption. Through a series of scenarios, we evaluate the impact of different charging strategies and EV penetration levels on generation capacity, battery storage requirements, total system cost, renewable energy penetration, and emissions reduction. The findings reveal that optimized charging patterns and higher EV adoption rates, compared to no EVs adoption, led to substantial improvements in renewable energy utilization (+4%), emissions reduction (−12.8%), and overall system cost (−9%). While EVs contribute to reduced emissions compared to conventional vehicles, non-optimized charging behavior may lead to higher total emissions when compared to scenarios without EVs. The research also found the potential of vehicle to grid (V2G) to reduce the need for battery storage compared to zero EV (−84%), to reduce emissions significantly (−23.7%), and boost penetration of renewable energy (+10%). This research offers valuable insights for policymakers, energy planners, and stakeholders seeking to leverage the synergies between EVs and renewable energy integration to pursue a sustainable energy future for Indonesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A substantial level of significance has been placed on renewable energy systems, especially photovoltaic (PV) systems, given the urgent global apprehensions regarding climate change and the need to cut carbon emissions. One of the main concerns in the field of PV is the ability to track power effectively over a range of factors. In the context of solar power extraction, this research paper performs a thorough comparative examination of ten controllers, including both conventional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controllers and artificial intelligence (AI) controllers. Various factors, such as voltage, current, power, weather dependence, cost, complexity, response time, periodic tuning, stability, partial shading, and accuracy, are all intended to be evaluated by the study. It is aimed to provide insight into how well each controller performs in various circumstances by carefully examining these broad parameters. The main goal is to identify and recommend the best controller based on their performance. It is notified that, conventional techniques like INC, P&O, INC-PSO, P&O-PSO, achieved accuracies of 94.3, 97.6, 98.4, 99.6 respectively while AI based techniques Fuzzy-PSO, ANN, ANFIS, ANN-PSO, PSO, and FLC achieved accuracies of 98.6, 98, 98.6, 98.8, 98.2, 98 respectively. The results of this study add significantly to our knowledge of the applicability and effectiveness of both AI and traditional MPPT controllers, which will help the solar industry make well-informed choices when implementing solar energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper utilizes social network analysis to examine the structural characteristics and trade dynamics of the renewable energy (hydropower, wind energy, and solar energy) trade network within the RCEP region from 2011 to 2020. The findings reveal: (1) The renewable energy trade network within the RCEP exhibits dynamism, heterogeneity, and an uneven development. The solar energy network is the most balanced and stable, while the wind energy network lags and shows marked fluctuations, with the hydropower network falling between these two. This demonstrates the diversity of energy trade within the region. (2) China, Singapore, and Japan are identified as the key exporting and importing countries, with Vietnam showing substantial growth potential. Individual analyses shed light on the stark disparities in trade status among nations, reflecting the diverse roles and future potential of member countries. (3) The QAP regression analysis reveals a significant influence of environmental pressure, particularly carbon dioxide emissions, on the renewable energy trade network. This study contributes to promoting environmental sustainability and energy security in the RCEP region and provides empirical evidence for global renewable energy trade strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mozambique is experiencing the consequences of a severe energy crisis with economic and social impacts. Its strict dependence on hydroelectric sources is being severely tested by recent droughts that have drastically reduced water levels in dams. However, Mozambique is addressing energy poverty by exploring renewable energy sources thanks to investments in the sector by the European Union. The research concerns an energy analysis profile of the country and the penetration of renewable energy, presenting an energy upgrading scope through a semi-automatic calculation methodology in a Building Information Modeling (BIM) environment. The building under study, located in Maputo, is the Natural History Museum, which plays an important role in biodiversity conservation. Therefore, this paper proposes a BIM methodology for sizing an environmental control system tailored to serve the museum. The proposed system replaces the previous one and includes a photovoltaic system that not only meets the museum's load but also supplies electricity to the surrounding area. Energy production from renewable sources with a surplus of 30% has been achieved. The proposed digital methodology has identified a maximum gap of 1.5% between the dimensions of the BIM duct and those of a traditional plant design, meeting ASHRAE requirements for environmental control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is aimed at systematically reviewing the literature on the interface of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM), Industry 4.0 and renewable energy. The aims of this review are to ascertain current state of the art in GSCM practices, to critically examine the role of industry 4.0 technologies in GSCM adoption, to examine sustainability and supply chain issues within the renewable energy sector, and to critically discuss tackling these issues using industry 4.0 driven GSCM. A total of 215 review and empirical papers from 2004 to 2023 gathered from three databases (ScienceDirect, Scopus and Web of Science) were reviewed. This research found several GSCM practices and succinctly categorized those based on their respective positions along any given value chain. The practices were categorized as related to: procurement and sourcing, product design, corporate relationship, organizational structure/strategy, logistics and transportation, waste and pollution management and manufacturing. We have found that the ten most mentioned GSCM practices are: Green purchasing, Eco-design, Cooperation with customers, Internal Environmental Management, Reverse logistics, Investment recovery, Green manufacturing, Green design, Collaboration with suppliers and Remanufacturing. Various Industry 4.0 technologies including blockchain, Internet of Things, Big Data and Artificial Intelligence were identified and their role in successful GSCM implementation is highlighted. Sustainability and supply chain related challenges within the renewable energy supply chain were found that include material sourcing and end-of-life management challenges. Finally, a perspective is given on the role of Industry 4.0 driven GSCM in tackling the renewable energy supply chain and sustainability challenges. This article concludes with a presentation of managerial implications and future research directions for managers within different sectors, especially the renewable energy industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar chimney power plants (SCPPs) are encouraging sustainable energy sources due to their low cost, abundance, low maintenance, and eco-friendliness. However, despite significant efforts to optimize SCPP design, their efficiency and power generation capabilities remain limited. Researchers have explored modifications in plant geometry and hybridization to improve efficiency. Despite extensive work in this area, commercialization of SCPPs has not yet been achieved. Most of the research is numerical and may differ from real-world practical use. The number of experimental studies is also relatively small. To facilitate commercialization, further investigation with practical and feasible dimensions is required. This comprehensive review paper aims to provide an in-depth analysis of experimental approaches and advancements in the field of SCPPs. The paper begins with an introduction, highlighting the background, significance, and objectives of the review. It provides an overview of the plants, discussing their principles and operation as innovative renewable energy systems. The historical development and evolution of solar chimneys are explored, shedding light on their progression over time. Case studies of operational hybrid SCPPs are examined to showcase real-world applications and performance. The paper also addresses environmental impacts and sustainability considerations associated with SCPPs. Furthermore, recommendations for future research and development in this field are provided to guide researchers and industry professionals. This study focuses on the possibility of commercialization of both standalone and hybrid SCPPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lingering COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine have wreaked havoc on the global oil supply chain. The current disruption of the oil supply chain and the rapidly growing energy demand created unprecedented oil shortages and raised the oil price beyond the affordable level. As worldwide oil price hikes continue, there is an urgent need for developing alternative energy sources, such as smart rural energy. Despite its enormous potential as a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based energy sources, smart rural energy has never been fully utilized in society. The limited use of smart rural energy may be related to its lack of commercialization, which could have created more eco-friendly and cost-efficient alternative energy sources. This paper assesses the eco-friendliness and cost-efficiency of smart rural energy sources such as solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower for the first time. This paper is also one of the first studies that intends to develop viable strategic plans for commercializing smart rural energy using strategy maps, which subsequently helps increase public awareness of renewable energy by creating visual communication tools that convey the benefits of smart rural energy commercialization to multiple stakeholders, including government entities, business communities, and energy consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing (AM) offers unique capabilities in terms of design freedom and customization, contributing to sustainable manufacturing. However, energy efficiency remains a challenge in the widespread adoption of AM processes. In this paper, we present a comprehensive review of the current research on energy efficiency in AM, addressing challenges, opportunities, and future directions. Our analysis reveals a lack of standardization in the measurement and reporting of energy consumption, making it difficult to evaluate and compare the energy performance of various systems. We propose a holistic framework to address energy efficiency throughout the entire life cycle of the AM process, highlighting the importance of design optimization, material selection, advanced control systems, and energy management strategies. The paper also emphasizes the need for further research on the interactions between process parameters, along with the potential of integrating renewable energy sources into AM systems. This review offers valuable insights for both academics and industry professionals, calling for standardized methodologies and a focus on energy management to optimize energy efficiency in AM processes, ultimately enhancing competitiveness and sustainability in modern manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete production is a large scale process that involves high energy consumption. In order to increase the sustainability of this process, the reduction of energy input is necessary. Bio-glycerol was demonstrated to be a highly efficient renewable-based additive in the grinding process for concrete production and helped reduce energy costs and improve the quality of the resulting product. In order to understand its excellent aiding properties, the interaction of glycerol with cement clinkers was investigated; both chemical and physical interactions were taken into account. The results of this investigation points to surface tension modification of the clinker particles as one of the main effects of bio-glycerol addition during the grinding process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the use of Solar Chimney Power Plants (SCPPs) for the production of green hydrogen as a means to store excess electrical energy generated from renewable energy resources (RESs). The proposed structure produces electrical energy and distilled water by heating the air under the SCPP. The electrolyzer is integrated into the seawater pool and installed at the solar chimney's base. The weather conditions at the proposed location of the SCPP including solar radiation, temperature, humidity, and wind speed, are analyzed to assess their impact on the performance of the SCPP. The potential applications and economic feasibility of the SCPP are discussed, considering its contribution to renewable energy generation and the benefits of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier. The results show that solar radiation levels and favorable temperature profiles play an important role in the performance of the SCPP. The SCPP could produce 380,263 kW h of electrical energy and 139,443 tons of distilled water annually. The results also showed that the SCPP could produce 13,000 kg of green hydrogen and 173,224 kg of oxygen annually. The revenue generated from the production of H 2 and O 2 has improved the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for the SCPP to 0.51 $/kWh and made it compete with other energy production facilities. Monthly variations in electrical energy, H 2 , O 2 , and distilled water production, highlight the dependence of hydrogen production on solar intensity and temperature. Overall, the research demonstrates the potential of SCPPs and hydrogen production as a sustainable and efficient solution for storing and utilizing excess renewable energy. [Display omitted] • Solar-electrolysis system combing solar chimney & electrolysis station is proposed. • The system produces green hydrogen, oxygen, desalinated water, and electricity. • The solar-electrolysis system was modeled using MATLAB mathematical modeling. • The system produced 380 MW h, 13 ton H 2 , 173.3 ton O 2 , and 139,443 ton water per year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combustion of fossil fuels constitutes a significant catalyst for climate change, resulting in the annual release of about two billion tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2). The increase in CO2 emission is directly linked to a heightened occurrence of natural calamities and health-related issues. The substitution of fossil fuels with renewable energy sources is a fundamental approach to reduce the negative impacts caused by consumption of these nonrenewable energy resources. The utilisation of biological methodologies to produce environmentally friendly energy from renewable sources holds significant potential for the sustainable production of fuel. However, the cultivation of first- and second-generation biofuel crops presents a challenge, since they compete for limited cropland, hence constraining their overall viability. In contrast, photosynthetic microorganisms such as algae and cyanobacteria exhibit significant potential as third-generation biofuel catalysts, devoid of the limitations associated with contemporary biofuels. Cyanobacteria, a type of photosynthetic prokaryotes, exhibit significant potential for the direct conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into biofuels, chemicals, and various other valuable compounds. There has been a growing interest in the concept of utilising biological processes to convert carbon dioxide into fuels and chemicals. The introduction of a limited number of heterologous genes has the potential to confer upon cyanobacteria the capability to convert particular central metabolites into a diverse range of end products. The progress in the field of synthetic biology and genetic manipulation has enabled the manipulation of cyanobacteria to synthesise compounds that are not generally produced by these organisms in their natural environment. This study focuses on recent papers that employ various methodologies to engineer cyanobacteria for the purpose of producing high-value compounds, such as biofuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reliable heat and power supply are among the basic household needs nowadays. It is especially topical in rural or distant locations that may be cut off from the energy grid due to extreme weather or other events. Nonetheless, the sustainability of our power production systems has to be considered to sustain our planet's long-term abilities to provide energy resources and a viable environment. Renewable energy resources must be prioritized in rural and remote areas, simultaneously strengthening distributed production ability and self-sufficiency. In this context, the use of the Stirling engine for heat to power generation in households, on the scale of small communities, and by using only renewable resources is becoming increasingly topical. Therefore, this research aims to identify the current state-of-the-art for Stirling engine applications using biomass as a renewable energy source, in the context of sustainability and energy security. The paper summarizes the current research tendencies at the household level in the use of biomass-based Stirling engines for renewable heat and power generation in decentralized energy systems. The methodology applied is a structured literature review and content analysis. The research results corroborate the progress towards the use of renewable resources and towards increased energy efficiency because the keyword and overlay analysis showed more frequent publishing in these areas. The content analysis on two more specific sub-directions of interest, i.e., biomass-fuelled Stirling engine use in households and Stirling engine implications on energy security, showed that though research activity in these directions has increased lately, more profound research is needed, especially on aspects of energy security and independence. The content analysis revealed a lack of in-depth analysis on the effects of Stirling engine use on energy security or energy independence, which is suggested as a topical subject for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of sustainable energy sources has become a major challenge for society. Green hydrogen, produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources, offers a potential solution to reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. The paper examines the integration of green hydrogen into various sectors, such as transportation, industry, power generation, and heating, highlighting its potential to decarbonize traditionally carbon-intensive areas. Furthermore, it analyses the strategies and policies employed by the European Union, Australia, Japan, the United States, and Canada to drive the development and adoption of green hydrogen technologies. The challenges and barriers that need to be addressed to fully realize the potential of green hydrogen, such as technological limitations, infrastructure development, costs and economic feasibility, regulatory and policy frameworks, and public perception and acceptance, have been investigated. Recommendations for overcoming these challenges and accelerating the adoption of green hydrogen technologies are provided, and the importance of research and development in this sector is emphasized. • Green hydrogen offers a sustainable solution to reduce fossil fuel dependency, decarbonizing key sectors. • Analyzed policies from the EU, Australia, Japan, the US, and Canada to foster green hydrogen technologies. • Discussing challenges: green hydrogen potential, tech limits, infrastructure, costs, regs, and public views. • Emphasized the importance of R&D and offers accelerating the adoption of green hydrogen technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a kind of renewable energy enterprise, wind power enterprise plays an important role in the energy transformation. However, its financing problems are also widespread. The purpose of this paper is to study the financing mode selection in order to improve sustainable development and future benefits of wind power enterprises. First, an evaluation index system is constructed through literature research and expert interviews, and the weight of each index is determined comprehensively by G1 and information entropy methods. On this basis, a financing mode selection model of wind power enterprises is constructed by using the prospect theory and hesitant fuzzy set. Next, this framework is used for case study. Financing patterns are ranked according to the comprehensive prospect value. The results show that financial leasing is the most suitable financing mode. Finally, the applicability and optimization of the model are proved by sensitivity analysis and comparative analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental product declarations (EPD) to EN 15804 provide information about the embodied carbon dioxide of construction products – their life cycle greenhouse gas emissions – alongside reporting the use of renewable and non-renewable primary energy and secondary fuels, among the other environmental indicators. As the number of EPD to EN 15804 increases, they become a useful data resource to consider these impacts. In moving towards a reduction in the embodied carbon of products, it is necessary to use renewable energy resources efficiently to allow the transition to net zero; this is because of the increasing demands on renewable energy to decarbonise industry, transport and domestic energy consumption and the limited capacity to expand renewable generation. This paper reviews published EPD data for structural and reinforcing steels, cement, bricks and structural timber products, and considers, for the cradle to gate 'product' life cycle stage, exploring the relationship of embodied carbon with embodied energy (total energy used), the balance of renewable and non-renewable energy, and the efficient use of energy. It is found, for bricks and timber, that EPD show products that use a greater percentage of renewable energy have higher embodied energy, suggesting a less efficient use of renewable energy for these products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives set in the European Green Deal constitute the starting point of this review, which then focuses on the current implementation gap between agro-industrial wastes as resources for large-scale bioprocesses (e.g., baker's yeast, bioethanol, citric acid, and amino acids). This review highlights the current lack of sustainability of the post-harvest processing of grapes and apples. In light of the European Green Deal, industrial biotechnology often lacks sustainability as well. We reviewed the recent progress reported in the literature to enhance the valorization of grape and apple pomace and the current failure to implement this research in technical processes. Nevertheless, selected recent papers show new perspectives to bridge this gap by establishing close collaborations between academic teams and industrial partners. As a final outcome, for the first time, we drew a circular flow diagram that connects agriculture post-harvest transformation with the industrial biotechnology and other industries through the substantial valorization of apple and grape pomace into renewable energy (solid biofuels) and sugar extracts as feedstock for large-scale bioprocesses (production of baker's yeast industry, citric acid, bioethanol and amino acids). Finally, we discussed the requirements needed to achieve the successful bridging of the implementation gap between academic research and industrial innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explains the energy mix of China's overseas electricity investments across Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) recipient countries. We focus on Indonesia and Pakistan. Our research is based on both newly gathered project-level data and in-depth interviews with stakeholders of Chinese-backed power plants in Indonesia and Pakistan. We examine (1) why Chinese actors are involved in renewable power generation in Pakistan and not in Indonesia, and (2) why Chinese-backed coal-fired projects in Pakistan are cleaner than in Indonesia. We argue that variations along the three dimensions – scope, governance regime, and issue linkage – lead to different energy mixes in Chinese-invested power plants across BRI countries. This framework specifies how supply and demand factors interact across multiple levels regarding the formulation and implementation of China's overseas electricity projects. Our findings shed new light on the environmental implications of BRI projects and the dynamics of renewable energy development in emerging markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper evaluates the impact of electricity consumption from renewable and nonrenewable sources on the load capacity factor for BRICS-T nations using data from 1990 to 2018. The paper used linear and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approaches to explore these associations. The results of the Westerlund co-integration show long-run co-integration between load capacity factor and the independent variables. The results show that renewable electricity energy and human capital contribute to the sustainability of the environment, while electricity consumption, economic growth, and industrialization impede environmental sustainability. Similarly, the nonlinear effect of renewable electricity energy on LCF shows interesting findings. The positive (negative) shift in renewable electricity energy increases ecological sustainability in the BRICS-T nations. Furthermore, the Dumitrescu Hurlin panel causality gives credence to both linear and nonlinear ARDL results. The study suggests policy recommendations based on these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to evaluate the awareness level of university students on energy conservation by focusing on their knowledge, attitude and practice. Energy awareness is a feasible energy conservation measure, but an inappropriate approach can cause the wastage of resources. The current number of reported awareness studies especially among the university student is quite limited, and focus is more given to the awareness on renewable energy, instead of energy conservation. Design/methodology/approach: A paper-based survey using a set of questionnaires that involved 2,857 respondents. There are four sections in this questionnaire, which are basic background information of respondents, knowledge (yes/true or no/false choice of responses), attitude (a scale of 1–10, where 10 indicates "strongly agree" and 1 chooses "strongly disagree") and practices (a scale of 1–10, where 10 indicates "Always" and 1 selects "Never"). The evaluation includes the correlation analysis of all awareness variables with an educational background to disclose the most critical aspects that should be highly considered in the forthcoming awareness campaign. Findings: This research revealed that university students have a high level of awareness of energy conservation. They hold a high knowledge level and show a positive attitude with very good energy conservation practices. However, some issues require serious attention in preparing energy management plans. Effective approaches should be taken by considering the field of study, gender and family economic status to enhance the awareness level of the university students on energy conservation. Originality/value: The absence of appropriate references complicates the preparation of energy management plans including the establishment of energy policy and strategies. The findings of this research can contribute some contextual information in the local perspective to ensure the effectiveness of the energy management program and strengthen academic leadership by emphasising the element of sustainability. This is crucial for developing an energy saving culture among the young generation that will be our future scholars and leaders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Energy consumption and renewable energy sources are included in the goals for the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) agenda, and target buildings are the biggest electricity consumers. In turn, Netzero energy buildings (NZEB) contribute to achieve SDG7 goals. This paper aims to identify which Brazilian higher education institutions (HEIs) practices contribute to developing the NZEB concept. Design/methodology/approach: Case studies were selected to identify which implanted practices applied by HEIs in Brazil, listed in the UI GreenMetric 2020 Ranking, are related to the NZEB concept. The implemented sustainable practices were also analyzed to evaluate the connections and impact between universities and the local community. Findings: Results show the lighting and air conditioning retrofit were among the most common practices related to energy efficiency to reduce consumption. For renewable energy generation, photovoltaic solar energy is the most common practice used by HEIs. Research limitations/implications: Only Brazilian HEIs listed in the UI Green Metric Ranking were analyzed. No standard regulation or formal reports support the wide dissemination of the strategies adopted by HEIs in Brazil. Practical implications: The strategies adopted by HEIs related to Netzero buildings can reduce emissions, optimize operating costs and improve building comfort conditions, which connect all SDGs. Social implications: HEIs can promote awareness related to energy use and clean energy generation within the local community. Originality/value: This paper presents the most common strategies adopted by Brazilian HEIs. However, limitations related to lack of strategies, data transparency and specific Netzero energy regulation were also found. These issues can hinder other HEIs to adopt similar strategies and contribute to the promotion of SDG7 in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exponential growth of population and industries has brought about an increase in energy consumption, causing severe climatic and environmental problems. Therefore, the move towards green renewable energy is being ever more intensified. This study aims at estimating the rooftop solar power production for Tehran, the capital city of Iran, using a Geospatial Information System (GIS) to assess the big data of city building parcels. Tehran is faced with severe air pollution due to its excessive fossil fuel usage, and its electricity demand is increasing. As a result, this paper attempts to provide the quantified solar power potential of city roof tops for policymakers and authorities in order to facilitate decision-making in relation to integrating renewable energies into the power production infrastructure. The results shows that approximately 3000 GWh (more than 14% of the total electric energy consumption) of solar power can be produced by the rooftop PV installations in Tehran. The potential nominal power of rooftop PV installations is estimated to be more than 2000 MW, which is four times the current installed PV capacity of the whole country. The findings of the study suggest that there is great potential hidden on the rooftops of the city, which can be utilized to assist the power systems of the city in the longer run for a more sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generating electricity from renewable energy instead of fossil fuels brings great benefits to the environment and sustainable development. Thus, assessing the potential of wind and solar energy in agricultural coastal areas can identify sustainable energy solutions for meeting energy demand and producing fresh water for agricultural applications and domestic use. However, it is difficult to accurately assess the wind and solar energy potential in Libya due to the civil war, lack of measured data, and its limited availability. Consequently, this concise work is unique because it is the first to use daily measurement data from Az-Zāwiyah, Libya, for evaluating wind and solar energy based on one year of measured data for 2022. Moreover, the present study aims to investigate the potential of wind and solar energy as promising renewable sources for meeting energy demand in coastal agricultural regions in Libya using multiple datasets for the first time. In this paper, five satellite products (TerraClimate, ERA5, ERA5-Land, MERRA-2, and CFSR) were assessed and compared against measured data for January 2022–December 2022 to understand their suitability, accuracy, and reliability. The results showed that CFSR and ERA5-Land demonstrate the most favorable performance for assessing the wind resource, while all satellite products can be utilized for preliminary solar resource assessment. Then, the assessment of wind and solar resources was evaluated in five agricultural coastal regions (Aljmail, Az-Zāwiyah, Castelverde, Msallatah, and Sabratah) based on the best satellite product for the period of 2000–2022. Furthermore, the performance of the wind and solar power systems was investigated for typical farms, which were chosen to estimate the required energy demand according to daily electrical consumption. The results show that the positive outcomes of implementing these systems were highlighted, with an emphasis on their potential benefits to the entire Libyan agricultural sector. Accordingly, scaling up and generalizing the proposed systems and generalizing them to include all farms in Libya could have a significant impact on national electricity generation, mitigate greenhouse gases, and contribute to the development of the agricultural sector and the country's economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collective self-consumption is called to be a crucial part of the current energy transition. In addition to the advantages of individual self-consumption, the possibility of improving economic feasibility exists. This paper shows how matching production and consumption loads increase the rate of self-consumption. Still, how the electricity is distributed among a renewable energy community's prosumers would reduce the total costs of self-consumed energy. Possible criteria for the allocation of the generated electricity among shareholders are analysed. The study also evaluates the use of static and dynamic distribution coefficients, observing their results and applicability and sorting them to maximise self-consumption participants' savings. The results are questioned against them and a reference scenario without shared self-consumption installation. As the exploitation of renewable energy for self-consumption is closely linked to the energy market and regulations, the analysis is based on a territorial case study. It is shown that the highest savings occur when electricity is allocated following distribution coefficients that consider the customer's energy consumption better than investment participation or contracted power, even when the compensation of surpluses is added. These criteria can accomplish technical and economic objectives and are introduced in regulations that foster the requested changes in consumers' behaviour and prosumers for sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to reveal the environmental impacts of cryptocurrencies, their macroeconomic relations, and their elements on crime. It is thought that the energy required for cryptocurrency mining causes more environmental pollution and damages the climate over time; the environmental footprint of cryptocurrencies may reach a dangerous point for the future of the world. It should be considered that different systems that require less energy during mining can be developed, and energy from renewable energy sources can be turned on for the crypto-mining system during hours when public energy consumption is low. In order to reduce the negative effects on economies, cryptocurrencies should be produced with an approach that can be audited, tax loss can be prevented and consumer/investor needs can be addressed. Due to the lack of effective legal regulation by states, cryptocurrencies can be used for money laundering, financing of drug-weapons-human trafficking and terrorist acts. For this reason, it is essential for all countries to quickly establish legal regulations on cryptocurrencies, prohibit black market transactions and regulate the global Bitcoin (BTC) audit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The BRICS region has considered achieving environmental sustainability a top priority in terms of policy. Environmental distress is mostly brought on by the region's continued reliance on fossil fuels to supply local energy needs. Besides, the region has historically been a significant importer of fossil fuels, making it difficult to substantially reduce the region's reliance on them. As a result, the BRICS nations' greenhouse gas (GHG) emission rates have steadily increased over time. Moreover, the region offers vast untapped amounts of renewable energy sources that may be used to generate power without adversely harming the environment. In light of this, this paper examines the combined effects of green finance (GFN) and financial technology (fintech) in achieving the region's carbon neutrality goals from 1990 to 2020, while controlling for energy innovation, economic growth and natural resources rent. The results for the BRICS economies, which are supported by the EKC hypothesis, suggest that GFN, fintech and energy innovation (ENI) promote environmental sustainability. However, natural resources rent (NRR) and economic growth (GDP) degrade environmental quality. Additionally, it has been shown that the bidirectional causality exists between CO2 emissions and GFN, fintech, and NRR. However, GDP and ENI have been shown to exhibit unidirectional causality with CO2 emissions. Based on the empirical findings, it is suggested that the BRICS countries should speed up the development of green financial products and expand the ability of banks and financial institutions to provide green credit facilities, and put into the research on the usage of GFN solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper comprehensively analyzes the overall status of the green bond market in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) for the renewable energy sector. Our results show that, in most cases, issuers are non-financial corporations. Also, despite LAC's low perception of transparency, 78% of the volume issued has been externally reviewed. In general terms, the barriers imposed on issuance by local governments, mainly municipal debt ceiling, low credit rating and solvency, limited capabilities to prepare bankable projects, and lack of communication channels between the financial sector and local governments, constrain the green bond market in LAC. Furthermore, although the presence of development institutions that promote the issuance of green bonds in the renewable sector has improved in recent years, it is mandatory to continue making progress in this area. For that purpose, closer cooperation and alliances are essential to share responsibilities and knowledge in LAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While blockchain and distributed ledger technology offer immense potential for applications in transparency, security, efficiency, censorship resistance, and more, they have been criticized due to the energy-intensive nature of the proof of work consensus algorithm, particularly in the context of Bitcoin mining. We systematically explore the state-of-the-art regarding the relationship between Bitcoin mining and grid decarbonization. We specifically focus on the role of flexible load response through proof of work mining as a potential contributor to renewable energy penetration and net decarbonization of the energy grid. The existing literature has not comprehensively examined this area, leading to conflicting views. We address the gap, analyzing the capabilities and limitations of Bitcoin mining in providing flexible load response services. Our findings show that renewable-based mining could potentially drive a net-decarbonizing effect on energy grids, although key adaptations in mining practices are needed to fully realize this potential. Overall, the paper suggests a re-evaluation of the environmental impact of Bitcoin mining, highlighting its potential role as a facilitator for renewable energy expansion, and decarbonization more broadly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating the determinants of environmental sustainability has become a very attractive and popular area of research in response to the United Nations' sustainable development goals (SDGs) and COP26 targets. Against this backdrop, this paper aims to explore the effects of renewable energy, technological innovation, and the insurance market on environmental sustainability in the United States (US). This work contributes to the extant body of knowledge by exploring the effect of the insurance market on the load capacity factor (LC), specifically regarding the US. The LC tracks a certain ecological threshold by simultaneously comparing biocapacity and ecological footprint (EF), thereby providing a comprehensive empirical analysis of ecological sustainability determinants. However, this proxy includes the combined attributes of the demand and supply sides of ecological sustainability. Using the recently developed autoregressive distributed lag method, this research reveals that the insurance market adversely affects the LC in the US. The overall outcomes highlight the positive role of renewable energy, technological innovation, and the insurance market in achieving the SDGs and COP26 targets. Policy recommendations for policymakers concerning promoting renewable energy, green innovation activities, the green insurance market, and ecological regulations are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Operational manipulations and effective management of the items which are deteriorating in nature can be handled with an investment in preservation technology. To sustain fit in frequently changing markets, it is quite obvious to address the environmental concern. This paper proposes two different carbon tax mechanisms for a flexible production system. Also, this pricing model is given for deteriorating items, with preservation strategy and renewable energy. Here, it is considered that the rate of deterioration can be minimized by investing in preservation technology. The main objective is to optimize the total profit and at the same time to calculate the carbon tax under the different taxing mechanisms. Moreover, the total profit of the manufacturer is maximized by jointly optimizing the production rate, preservation technology investment, and selling price. Further, numerical manifestation along with sensitivity analysis has been given to exhibit the key features of the model. This model and the managerial implications can be widely applied to the food items, grocery industries, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the future of libraries by comparing traditional library practices with emerging green library practices. With an increasing emphasis on environmental sustainability, libraries are evolving to incorporate more eco-friendly practices to reduce their ecological footprint. This paper examines the definition of green libraries and highlights their significance in promoting sustainability and environmental awareness within communities. The paper reviews the differences between traditional libraries and green libraries, including the adoption of renewable energy sources, integration of natural features, use of smart building technologies, workshops and education programs, collaborations with community organizations, and advocacy for sustainable policies and initiatives. By analyzing these differences, the paper provides a comparative analysis of green libraries and traditional libraries. The paper presents case studies of successful green libraries in Indian contexts to showcase their achievements and impact. It also discusses the potential benefits of green libraries, such as improved energy efficiency, reduced waste, increased community engagement, and enhanced reputation. This paper highlights the growing trend towards green libraries and their potential to transform the future of libraries. By comparing traditional and green library practices, it offers insights and implications for library professionals, policymakers, and researchers, emphasizing the need for further research and innovation in this evolving field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviewed the deposition of thin films of TiO2 for self-cleaning applications deposited using the spin coater. The overwhelming global demand for electricity pushes power producers to develop substitute energy sources. Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, tidal, geothermal, and hydroelectric are now considered to create alternative power sources. The most abundant form on earth is solar energy, converted to electrical energy using a solar panel. Regrettably, solar panels attract contaminants once exposed to the atmosphere, causing their efficiency to drop. Self-cleaning is one of the researched technologies to help maintain clean photovoltaic surfaces. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is among the materials studied for self-cleaning, and the spin-coating method offers great promise. This paper presented the background and working principle of the spin coater, precautions to be taken with the spin-coating process, and the merits and demerits of the process. The paper highlighted the self-cleaning mechanism and the spin-coating method to create self-cleaning TiO2 thin films for application on several surfaces, including the solar panel. Commonly used self-cleaning materials were also reviewed, including materials used to dope or create TiO2 composite for better self-cleaning capability. Effects of process parameters, available substrates, surfactants, solvents, and stabilizing agents on the final TiO2 thin film performance and recent innovative efforts to improve the spin-coating process and the self-cleaning abilities of TiO2 are reviewed. This will contribute to the body of knowledge on spin-coating techniques, self-cleaning thin films, and TiO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind energy research plays a vital role in the possibility of the success story of wind energy as one of the most promising sustainable energy sources. This continuous process has been achieved from the era of small wind turbines to the current Multi-WM standard and beyond. In this editorial paper, the progress and future outlook of wind energy research in two main aspects are discussed. The first aspect is in the area of wind turbine design and computations which covers engineering modeling and high-fidelity approaches. The second part of the paper discusses the usage of data-driven approaches in wind energy research. The paper compiles and presents the key findings of several recent studies in these two areas of research. The discussion of the paper is focused on the technical aspects of wind energy modeling. The main aim is to provide an overview about the direction of current research and its importance to meet future expectations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite their economic success, the BRICS countries have yet to achieve environmental sustainability. On the other hand, these countries will not be able to maintain their economic expansion if they do not protect the natural environment. In this regard, this paper intends to assess the effects of financial integration (globalization) on ecological footprint. The paper also considers other ecological footprint drivers, including economic expansion, urbanization, renewable energy and technological innovation. The research utilizes a dataset spanning from 1990 to 2018. The study employed the method of moments quantile regression (MMQR) approach, which is robust to cross-sectional dependence and slope homogeneity issues. The outcomes from the MMQR disclose that the effect of financial globalization on ecological footprint is positive across all quantiles (0.1–0.90), thus validating the pollution haven hypothesis (PHH) in the BRICS nations. Furthermore, both renewable energy and technological innovation curb ecological footprint across all quantiles (0.1–0.90). Moreover, technological innovation is proven to impact the environment positively across all quantiles (0.1–0.90) via the path of urbanization. As a result, technological innovation is projected to help the BRICS nations achieve sustainable urbanization. The DOLS, FMOLS, FE-OLS outcomes also validate the outcomes of MMQR. Based on these results, policies were proposed. • MMQR applied to integrate asymmetric effects. • Renewable energy consumption and technological innovation derive ecological sustainability. • Financial integration-led Pollution-haven-hypothesis is confirmed. • Economic growth and urbanization lead to higher ecological footprints. • Technology innovation neutralizes the negative impact of urbanization on ecological sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By considering a panel dataset between 1995 and 2019 including several countries in South America and methodologically using the fixed effect and GMM methods in first differences, the authors sought to empirically determine the relationship between traditional energy consumption, renewable energy consumption, and economic growth. The results show that the two main variables studied (fossil energy consumption and renewable energy consumption) are statistically significant and contribute to economic growth per capita in all nine South American countries studied. Furthermore, it should be noted that this significance persists in the four models discussed in this study, demonstrating a link between the positive economic impact of reducing traditional energy consumption and increasing renewable energy consumption in the South American countries studied. This article also contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the fundamental role of gross capital formation, labor force participation, and tertiary school enrollment in the economic growth of these countries. Two rather small effects on the aforementioned growth are the corruption perception index and domestic lending to the private sector by banks. This paper calls on policymakers to reconsider increasing energy production using renewable sources and to promote measures for its consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the intermediate results of the design experimentation of a Public Housing development in which the Renewable Energy Community model is an opportunity for energy transition but also for the needs of social inclusion and collaboration, which characterise the complex conditions of contemporary housing. Demonstrating the transcalar and multifunctional effectiveness of RECs incentivises their implementation, especially when a complex demanding framework is confronted with limitedly available resources. Hence, through a systemic approach, simulative methods and impact indicators, the extent of the contribution offered by the REC model was verified not only in terms of decarbonisation and climate neutrality but as an opportunity for eco-social regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen is increasingly considered a vital element for the long-term decarbonization of the global energy system. For regions with scarce land resources, this means importing significant volumes of green hydrogen from regions with abundance of renewable energy. In producing countries, this raises significant sustainability questions related to production and export. To assess these sustainability-related opportunities and challenges, the authors first present a review of renewable energy deployment in the electricity sector, and then extend it to the foreseeable opportunities and risks of green hydrogen production in exporting countries. The paper finds that questions of freshwater and land availability are critical from an environmental and a socio-economic point of view, and that the development of international standards for the governance of hydrogen-related projects will be crucial. These should also address potential conflicts between the deployment of renewable energy for the decarbonization of local power grids, and the export of green hydrogen. • Production and export of GH raise questions of sustainability and climate justice. • Land and freshwater availability are key risks for local communities. • Community engagement is needed to mitigate local environmental risks factors. • International standards for governance of hydrogen projects are key to sustainability. • Climate-related risks should be included in sustainability standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing need for energy resources and the urgent needed action for climate change competing lead to conflict between all sectors on how to meet the needs without causing environmental degradation. By looking for alternatives source between the renewable resources? the best selection meets the needs is biofuel. Out of Biofuel types, Biodiesel is a great and clean selection of energy resources. Biodiesel prepared from many feedstocks to extract fatty acid from different generations of biodiesel, each generation has its limitation thought looking for viable and cost-effective feedstock? In this paper we discuss the use of agricultural waste as feedstock for biodiesel preparation using oleaginous fungi as mini-factories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decarbonized hydrogen production using renewable energy sources and water electrolysis is perceived as a promising solution for a sustainable future. The efficiency of PEMWEs relies on several multiphysical aspects and even a slight increase in their efficiency may change the future of sustainable energy routes. Hence, this paper reviews the most compelling research on increasing PEMWE efficiency, which is one of the main pillars for the advancement of this technology. Various publications, including chemical engineering, materials, mass transfer, energy transfer, electrical control, power generation, and hybrid systems, are considered. From the electrolyzer power sources (renewable energy, hybrid, power to gas), inputs (power regulation, water temperature, pressure, ambient temperature), and stack, to components design, control strategy, and new hybrid designs have come under scrutiny in this manuscript. Finally, five essential recommendations are given as the pathways for future studies on PEMWE efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With little time left for humanity to reduce climate change to a tolerable level, a highly scalable and rapidly deployable solution is needed that can be implemented by any country. Offshore wind energy in international waters is an underused resource and could even be harnessed by landlocked countries. In this paper, the use of sailing wind turbines operating autonomously in high seas to harvest energy is proposed. The electrical energy that is generated by the wind turbine is converted to a renewable fuel and stored onboard. Later, the fuel will be transferred to shore or to other destinations of use. The presented idea is explored at the system level, where the basic subsystems necessary are identified and defined, such as energy conversion and storage as well as propulsion subsystems. Moreover, various operating possibilities are investigated, including a comparison of different sailing strategies and fuels for storage. Existing ideas are also briefly addressed and an example concept is suggested as well. In this paper, the proposed sailing renewable energy conversion system is explored at a higher level of abstraction. Following up on this conceptual study, more detailed investigations are necessary to determine whether the development of such a sailing renewable energy conversion system is viable from an engineering, economic, and environmental point of view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]